10 spectacular things to do in Riyadh this week: August 28 to 31
What’s on this week…
It’s back to school for the kids, and if you’re looking to fill up the calendar with exciting activities for you and the whole family, we’ve got you covered. So, whether you’re after the best dining destinations or ways to kickstart your week, here are ten spectacular things to do in Riyadh.
Sunday August 28
1. Shop for last-minute back-to-school essentials
Looking to stock up on study supplies and school essentials at low prices? Until August 31, shoppers can save up to 70 per cent on noon’s Back to School sale, which is jam-packed with huge deals, incredible discounts, and money-saving bank offers on a wide assortment, such as the latest tech, fashion, backpacks, stationery, and other study essentials.
2. Best-selling phenomenon ‘Where the Crawdads Sing’ is now in theatres
From the best-selling novel comes a captivating mystery. Where the Crawdads Sing tells the story of Kya, an abandoned girl who raised herself to adulthood in the dangerous marshlands of North Carolina. For years, rumours of the “Marsh Girl” haunted Barkley Cove, isolating the sharp and resilient Kya from her community. Drawn to two young men from town, Kya opens herself to a new and startling world; but when one of them is found dead, she is immediately cast by the community as the main suspect. As the case unfolds, the verdict as to what actually happened becomes increasingly unclear, threatening to reveal the many secrets that lay within the marsh.
Where the Crawdads Sing, Drama/Thriller, Rating R18, 1h 50min. Book your tickets here.
3. Explore the mind-blowing world of illusions
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If you still haven’t been to the Museum of Illusions, now’s the chance to immerse yourself in the dizzying array of interactive exhibits. Jump straight into the fun with the Vortex Tunnel, which will have you think the ground is moving, or see yourself in a new light in the True Mirror room. The exhibits make for some unreal Insta-worthy shots, too.
Museum of Illusions Riyadh, Riyadh Park Mall, Unit FAS2, Sat to Thurs 10am to midnight & Fri 1pm to midnight. Sar80 for 16 years and above, Sar60 for five- to 15-year-olds & Sar250 for a family of two adults and two children. Tel: 011 263 0523. @museumofillusions_riyadh
Monday August 29
4. Discover Marks & Spencer’s latest denim collection
For the ultimate denim comfort and stylish fits made with responsibly sourced cotton, look no further than Marks & Spencer’s latest collection. Wardrobe updates include stylish denim jeans that give women of all shapes and sizes the most flattering fits and a selection of shirts with detailed frilled and embroidered collars. Meanwhile, M&S Menswear presents an array of authentic, contemporary, and modern fits to keep you looking stylish yet comfortable wherever you go. Pair the denim Straight Fit Stretched Jeans with M&S’s Pure Cotton Crew Neck Jumper or Cotton Navy Striped T-shirt to get the effortless style you are looking for. In addition, the kidswear range includes a denim shirt dress for easy wear, a dungaree and a detailed cotton blouse that features an adjustable waistband for the little ones.
Marks & Spencer, various locations. @marksandspencerksa
5. Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea at Al Faisaliah Hotel
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Boasting an elegant and comfortable setting with lush interiors and natural daylight, Al Faisaliah Hotel’s Joud Lounge is a peaceful oasis – an oasis of tea and cake. Soft, warm scones are served with lashings of cream, butter and the most delicious jam that left us scraping the bottom of the ramekin. The assortment of cakes and artisanal chocolate pralines are a feast for the eyes, while finger sandwiches make a welcome savoury intervention from the sweet treats.
Afternoon Tea at Joud Lounge, Al Faisaliah Hotel, daily 2pm to 6pm. Tel: 011 273 2005. @alfaisaliahhotel
Tuesday August 30
6. Elevate your afternoons at Coya
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There’s nothing quite like a fancy lunch to banish the midweek blues. Coya has just unveiled its three-course set lunch menu, which includes two appetisers, a choice of main and dessert. Not to be missed are the signature dishes of sea bass ceviche and Chilean sea bass rice. For dessert, choose between three mouthwatering options: churros, chocolate fondant, or any selection of ice cream or sorbet.
Coya Set Lunch, SAR250 per person, daily 1pm to 5pm, 8710 Prince Abdulaziz Ibn Musaid Ibn Jalawi St, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12223. @coyariyadh
7. Say goodbye to bad hair days
We all know that the sun and heat can take a toll on your tresses. So, if you’re looking for a little extra TLC, Watsons has rounded up a fool-proof routine for summer haircare and products to match – from hair oil and protective serums to sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. The Natural by Watsons Olive Hair Oil is our current favourite for boosting the overall health of our hair.
Watsons, various locations. @watsonsgcc
8. Celebrate Taco Tuesdays at 56th Avenue Diner
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56th Avenue Diner at Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya has a brilliant Taco Tuesday deal. For SAR156+, eat your fill of soft or crunchy tacos filled with chicken, beef and vegetables. Add a zesty margarita mocktail to the pile of tacos on your plate, and you have the makings of a great meal.
Taco Tuesdays, 56th Avenue Diner, every Tues 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, Olaya St, Al Olaya, Riyadh 11433. SAR156+ per person. Tel: 053 341 1234. @hyattregencyriyadholaya
Wednesday August 31
9. Catch this summer’s biggest horror movie
Discover something extraordinary and sinister in the skies above in Jordan Peele’s sci-fi thriller, Nope. Siblings OJ (David Kaluuya) and Em (Keke Palmer) attempt to capture paranormal evidence at their California horse ranch. Meanwhile, the town’s theme park owner tries to profit from the mysterious, otherworldly phenomenon.
Nope, SciFi/ Mystery/ Horror, Rating R15, 2h 15min. Book your tickets here.
10. Check out the Batman and Sonic the Hedgehog zones at Gamers8
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Are your kids fans of Batman and Sonic the Hedgehog? You’ll be thrilled to know that there are new immersive experiences at the Gamers8 Festival filled with arcade machines and other entertainment activities. And if they’re lucky, they might also get to meet the characters in person.
Batman & Sonic Activations, until Sept 8, 6pm to midnight, Boulevard Riyadh Festival. Book your tickets here. SAR40 for weekdays & SAR50 for weekends. @gamers8_en
Images: Instagram / Provided